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John Hancock

Definition

John Hancock was a merchant, statesman, and prominent Patriot of the American Revolution. He served as president of the Second Continental Congress and was first and third Governor of Massachusetts. He is remembered for his large signature on the United States Declaration of Independence.

Analogy

Think of John Hancock as that friend who always signs their name really big on group projects or birthday cards - just like how he signed his name so large on the Declaration of Independence.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: The statement adopted by the Second Continental Congress meeting at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 4th, 1776 which announced that thirteen American colonies were now independent states, no longer under British rule.

Second Continental Congress: A convention of delegates from all thirteen colonies that became the acting national government for duration of Revolutionary War after it convened in May 1775.

Governor (US): The head executive officer in each state or territory. In this case referring to John Hancock's role as Governor in Massachusetts.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.